The Rakaia River, at 125km in length, is the best salmon river in New Zealand. The peak of the salmon season is the middle of January.

When you stay at St Itas from November to April, a local guide can be organised (along with a trout fishing license), to show you the best spots, which start only 10 minutes from your doorstep!

Ask about the local golf courses, walkways, cycle trails and the South Island’s iconic “Salmon World” (easy walking distance from St Itas). “Salmon World’s” 4D theatre features spectacular views of the foothills to the Southern Alps.

Mt Hutt Ski Area, just 30 minutes from the township of Rakaia, caters for beginners to advanced skiers and snowboarders, offering a range of on and off piste runs as well as fabulous on-field facilities, including everything from an award-winning ski and snowboard school, to a snowboard terrain park, licenses creche and a great bar and restaurant. Mt Hutt is known for its consistent snow and has the longest season of the major commercial ski areas in New Zealand. The last few years have seen multi-million dollar developments of the basin-quad and six-seater chair lifts, magic carpets, increased snowmaking and all new trails.

At the end of your day on the slopes, heading back to your “home away from home” at St Itas provides a chance to relax and unwind in a peaceful setting. Your hosts, Miriam and Ken, know all of the area’s best-kept secrets, and will spoil you with a hearty home-cooked breakfast inspired by local produce.